When applying for immigration relief under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you must show that your marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident was entered into in good faith. This means the marriage was genuine and not only for immigration purposes. Even if the relationship later became abusive, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires proof that the marriage was bona fide from the start.

Evidence of a bona fide marriage can include joint leases or mortgages, joint bank accounts, utility bills, and tax returns filed together. Birth certificates of children from the marriage are strong evidence. If you cannot access financial or legal records due to abuse, other documents such as photographs, travel records, correspondence, or affidavits from family, friends, and community members can also support your case.

USCIS recognizes that abuse may limit access to traditional documentation. In these situations, your own declaration about the relationship, along with statements from people who knew you as a couple, can be important evidence. The goal is to show that the marriage was real, even if the relationship later became harmful.

It is important to remember that entering into a fraudulent marriage for immigration purposes is against the law and can result in serious consequences, including denial of immigration benefits and potential legal penalties. VAWA is meant to protect individuals in real marriages who have experienced abuse, not to provide relief through fraud.

Since proving a bona fide marriage is an important step in the VAWA process, it is best to work with an experienced immigration attorney. If you believe you may qualify for VAWA or need help collecting evidence for your case, contact Agarwal Law Group at 703-348-1663 to schedule a consultation.

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